Musk. Hgts. Academy addressing violence after 3 student deaths

MUSKEGON HEIGHTS, Mich. (WZZM) – School starts Monday at Muskegon Heights Academy, but as the district transitions into a year-round school year, the death of a third student in four months is weighing heavy on hearts.

Superintendent Alana Zachery-Ross says the topic of street violence will not be ignored.

"This is a part of what our students have to deal with. We have to help them through the grief and loss process. We also have to help them by giving them some real active things to do instead of just walking on the streets," Zachery-Ross said.

Marquis Gresham was murdered in April, Dmetrius Washington in July, and Thursday, DeQuarius Love died in a drive by shooting on Peck Street.

School employees participated in additional training Thursday to deal with what could be an emotional day Monday, and the district will be offering more after school programs and encouraging students to get off the streets before nightfall.

The city curfew in Muskegon Heights runs 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. and applies to anyone under 17. Love, who was 17, was shot around 12:30 a.m.

Muskegon Heights police have not released any new details about Love's shooting. They are still asking anyone with information to call Silent Observer at (231) 72-CRIME or Muskegon Heights Police at (231) 733.8900.